Melrose, Massachusetts

3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 3, ISSUE 10 chusetts OPPORTUNITY W ith its tree lined streets, wide open spaces, and historic Victorian architecture, Melrose, Massachusetts offers the picture perfect escape from big city life – without compromising on amenities. Located just seven miles outside of Boston, the picturesque metropolitan suburb offers a prime mixture of big city action and small town charm. “We have great schools, terrific restaurants, and a lot of both passive and active recreation,” says Melrose Mayor Paul Brodeur. “We are a very attractive spot just north of Boston.” Sitting at just 4.7 square miles, Melrose may be small, but it has a lot to offer. There’s never a dull moment in the city of 29,817, which hosts many public art projects and a plethora of events that run all year long. “We always joke that there’s almost too much to do on weekends here in Melrose,” says Lauren Grymek, the city’s Director of Economic Development. “There’s something for everyone. Every weekend there’s something happening.” Many of the events are run through a partnership with the Melrose Chamber of Commerce, which has a membership of over 300 active local businesses. “The Chamber, as one of the private partners of the city, does a lot to bring people to the downtown, to the business districts, through a wide variety of marketing initiatives, and four signature community events AT A GLANCE MELROSE, MASSACHUSETTS WHAT: A small city of just 4.7 square miles; population nearing 30,000 WHERE: Located seven miles north of Boston WEBSITE: www.cityofmelrose.org